Thursday, May 15, 2008

The Expense of Postpartum Joy

One of the traits I inherited from my Grandpa Davie is a zest for life, followed immediately by a sentimentality so strong that it can stop me in my tracks, weeping with homesickness, weeping with joy at having seen a beautiful thing, weeping just to weep.

Sunday was Mother's Day, and when asked what I wanted to do, sentimentality and joie de vivre took over. I wanted to watch sunlight braid itself into the golden curls on Briar's head, I wanted to watch Avery gallop, hips swiveling with each magnificent stride, I wanted to feel Fin on my chest, the gentle rumble of snoring and the kisses of newborn fingertips on my bare skin. I wanted to stand proudly with Sean watching our brood. And so I did. For six glorious hours we played at the park, picnicked beneath evergreens and then scaled the mossy trails of Buck Mountain.

It was just the kind of day a person could weep for having tasted.

Today I weep with fever and aches, my body upset with my heart for trodding so heavily toward joy that it trumped reason.

Off to a hot bath, but oh the sweet memories of the day. Maybe Grandpa was watching, weeping and sighing at the beauty of it all. I hope so.









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17 comments:

Amy said...

The photographs make it seem worth it.

But take care of you, friend.


ps - your Finley? Edible.

Momma Bean said...

The last two pictures made me weep with longing for my girls. I can't wait to get home to them. Everyday is the same, but today especially, thanks to you.

Hope you're feeling well soon.

flutter said...

Oh baby feel better

Robin said...

Hiking so soon after giving birth? Sentimental or not, you are a badass! Lovely photos, too. Feel better soon!

Amy Y said...

Oh, Mama ~ beautiful photos. I hope you are feeling better soon! Take it easy... these moments can be had when you're all healed up!

Janet said...

If only the postpartum body could keep pace with the euphoric heart and mind. Alas.

Rest and be well.

Tuesday Girl said...

reminds me of my mother's day : )
Your girls are so sweet.

Lisa said...

What lovely pictures - feel better, and soak up all the loveliness you can!

Heather said...

Those girls of yours are gorgeous.

And look at you all looking so good.

Cheryl said...

Those pictures are gorgeous. I hope you feel better soon so you can get back to enjoying them so much.

BetteJo said...

Baby Finley is gorgeous, the day looks like it was lovely, and you and Sean have created an atmosphere where even with a newborn - Briar and Avery will never feel left out or lack for attention. Amazing.

Everything changes, but everything stays the same.

You are giving them everything that is important. :)

iheartchocolate said...

You are so truly blessed.

Beautiful pictures AND post! Seeing your girls side by side is so sweet.

PaisleyJade said...

The most important thing is savouring these moments and being thankful! Awesome post and pics!

Unknown said...

Those last 2 pictures just say such volumes about the memories that this little trip of yours has resulted in. Who cares about the pain that resulted ;) ? What a special day!

Myshka said...

I feel as though I have to brace myself before I read your entries.. your beautiful words make ME weep. Hugs to you xx

Damselfly said...

Ah! You've found true happiness in the joy of the moment.

Anonymous said...

Lovely day. Lovely brood.